Combustible log torch

ABSTRACT

A combustible log torch which can be ignited to provide heat for warmth or cooking, and light for illumination can be made by compacting a mixture of wood sawdust and a food grade binder. Such combustible log torches are convenient and safe to use and provide optimal characteristics of quickly providing a bonfire without the need for a fireplace or a fire pit. The fire produced by such combustible logs is also optimal for safely and conveniently cooking food items. Such a combustible log torch can be manufactured by a method which comprises compacting a composition which is comprised of a mixture of wood particles and a food grade binder under a pressure of at least about 5 psi (0.034 megapascals) in a mold to produce the combustible log torch having at least one vertical cavity (hole) which extend vertically through the entire length of the combustible log torch.

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/657,370, filed on Jul. 24, 2017, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/365,432, filed on Jul. 22,2016, and which also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/381,816, filed on Aug. 31, 2016. The teachingsof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/657,370, U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/365,432 and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/381,816 are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The subject invention relates to a novel type of combustible log torchwhich can be ignited to provide heat for warmth or cooking, and lightfor illumination. It is convenient and safe to use and provides optimalcharacteristics of quickly providing a bonfire without the need for afireplace or a fire pit. The fire produced by the combustible log ofthis invention is also optimal for safely and conveniently cooking fooditems thereon.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Throughout history, open fires have been used to generate heat for awarmer, more comfortable environment, for cooking, and as a source oflight for illumination. Fires are also deemed to be aestheticallypleasing, and are frequently made at parties, celebrations, and othersocial gatherings even though they are not needed for heat, light orcooking. On the other hand, open fires are commonly used in the typicalway during camping trips to provide warmth and light as well as a heatsource for cooking.

Over the centuries there have been many innovations which made the useof fire safer, more efficient for a particular purpose, and moreconvenient. The Swedish fire torch is said to have been developed foruse by Swedish soldiers during the thirty year war between 1618 and1648. Through a specially developed sawing process the Swedish soldierswere said to use fresh pinewood as a source of heat and did not need totravel great distances for firewood at camp. The Swedish torch is burntvertically and burns evenly over a relatively long period of time.

Today, the Swedish torch, also known as a Canadian Candle, is popularbecause it is a convenient way to start a fire with only one log,provides a flat cooking surface and is self-feeding (it can burn forseveral hours without any attention). The Swedish torch is easy tobuild, takes up a small amount of space and is also a good fire to makein snow, as the main part of the construction is kept off the wetground. The Swedish torch is made by splitting a log into four quarters.The log is then reassembled, leaving equally sized gaps between each ofthe four pieces. The kindling for the fire is made of smaller pieces ofwood which are placed at alternating angles, in a crisscross fashion, inthe gaps between the four pieces of the log. The tinder which is used tostart the fire is typically placed at the top of the torch and isgenerally also placed intermittently between the kindling. The burningkindling will drop down into the lower layers of the Swedish torchcausing it to ignite all four quarters of the split. Air is able tocirculate within the burning log by virtue of the gaps between the splitlog which, of course, provides oxygen to the burning fire. It is easy toset such a Swedish torch on fire and it will burn freely requiringvirtually no additional attention for up to several hours.

In more recent times, numerous devices have been developed which allowpeople to enjoy open fires for heat, cooking, and simply for theaesthetically pleasing atmosphere which they create. For example,sophisticated charcoal grills have been developed for cooking food overburning wood or charcoal. Various types of liquid hydrocarbon burningtorches have been developed for illumination and to provide the desiredatmosphere. Logs which are designed for easy lighting and which requirelittle attention and work, such as Duraflame® logs, have also becomepopular in recent times. Such manufactured logs are typically made withblends of sawdust or agricultural biomass with natural waxes and oilsderived from organic materials.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,597,381 describes a fire log which has one or severallongitudinal incisions, which penetrate the log but do not reach theside surface and intersect in the log's midsection. A lower part of thislog has at least one air duct from the side surface to the log'smidsection in case the log is set on a surface which obstructs airflowto the log's lower part. The log's midsection contains an ignitiondevice, which can be an ignition strip, tablet, briquette or other thathas been permeated with an ecologically friendly flammable substancethat burns fast and evenly.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,833,353 discloses a combustible device which can beignited to furnish warmth for comfort, heat for cooking, and light forillumination, and which may also be aesthetically pleasing. This deviceincludes a shell formed of combustible material, which defines anupdraft chamber, an intake chamber located at the lower portion of theupdraft chamber and being in fluid communication with both the updraftchamber and the outside of the shell, and one or more exhaust flueslocated at the top of the updraft chamber. The flues also are in fluidcommunication with both the updraft chamber and the outside of theshell, to provide an exit for smoke and ashes formed by combustion inthe updraft chamber. The updraft chamber of this device may be tapered,so that the upper portion of the updraft chamber is narrower than thelower portion of the updraft chamber. Preferably, the combustible shellis formed with an aesthetically pleasing appearance, such as a reliefshaped like a face. The shell may also include a thick, solid spinealong its length, to maintain the balance of the shell while it burns.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The subject invention relates to a novel type of combustible log torchwhich can be ignited to provide heat for warmth or cooking, and lightfor illumination. It is convenient and safe to use and provides optimalcharacteristics of quickly providing an aesthetically pleasing bonfirewithout the need for a fireplace or a fire pit. The fire produced by thecombustible log of this invention is also optimal for safely andconveniently cooking food items thereon because the flames producedproject in a generally upwardly fashion to provide a concentrated areaof flames above the log. It is also important to appreciate that thecombustible log torches of this invention do not emit any substanceswhich cause safety concerns, environmental concerns, or which cause fooditems being cooked to have a foul flavor or taste. In fact, food itemscooked over open flames of the combustible logs of this invention aretypically imparted with a very pleasant wood-fired flavor.

The combustible log torch of this invention can also be easilytransported to a desired location, such as a campsite, and can be easilyignited and will burn in a self-contained fashion for an extended periodof time without further attention. The combustible log torch of thisinvention is designed for being burnt on the ground without the need fora fireplace or a fire-pit. However, it can be burnt in a fireplace or afire-pit if so desired. In fact, the combustible log torches of thisinvention can conveniently be used as starter logs in buildingconventional fires in fireplaces and fire-pits.

The combustible log torches of this invention are made with woodparticles, such as wood sawdust, wood shavings, wood dust, wood chips,and mixtures thereof. The combustible log torches of this invention canoptionally include lignin. In any case, renewable materials which arebyproducts from sawmills and paper plants are utilized in manufacturingthe combustible log torches of this invention. There is a long felt needfor value added uses for wood particles and lignin which is provided bytheir use in the combustible log torches of this invention. Thecombustible log torches of this invention are also made by an efficientprocess that does not typically require any cutting or machining. Inother words, the combustible log torches of this invention can bemanufactured consistently in an efficient manner without the need forlabor intensive procedures.

The present invention more specifically discloses a method formanufacturing a combustible log torch which comprises compacting a woodparticle composition which is comprised of a mixture of wood particlesand a food grade binder under a pressure of at least about 5 psi (0.034megapascals) in an essentially cylindrical mold to produce thecombustible log torch having at least one vertical cavity which extendvertically through the entire length of the combustible log torch.

The subject invention further reveals a combustible log torch having atop end, a bottom end, a circumferential peripheral side, at least onevertical hole which extend through the entire length of the combustiblelog torch from the bottom end to the top end, and at least one ventwhich extend through the circumferential peripheral side of the torchlongitudinally from the vertical cavity; said top end, said bottom end,and said circumferential peripheral side defining an essentiallycylindrical log shaped structure which constitutes the peripheralsurfaces of the combustible log torch; said combustible log torch beingcomprised of a combustible mixture of compressed wood particles and afood grade binder.

This invention further discloses a method for improving the burncharacteristics of a manufactured wood log which comprised treating thewood log with a triglyceride oil in a manner which allows for thetriglyceride oil to be absorbed into the log in an amount which is withthe range of 1 weight percent to 15 weight percent, based upon theweight of the manufactured wood log. The manufactured log can be aSwedish torch, a Canadian Candle, or any other type of manufactured woodlog which is made by cutting, drilling, or otherwise machining a naturalwood log. In many cases it is preferred for 3 weight percent to 7 weightpercent of the triglyceride oil to be absorbed into the manufacturedlog. This can be accomplished by a wide variety of techniques, includingspraying, brushing, dipping, soaking, or emersion. In many cases it isconvenient to simply dip the manufactured log into the desired oil andto allow the oil to penetrate the wood structure via the wicking effect.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of the combustible log torch of this invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective top view of the combustible log torch of thisinvention.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the combustible log torch of this invention.

FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the combustible log torch of this invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective bottom view of the combustible log torch of thisinvention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a combustible log torch of thisinvention wherein the log torch is square shaped.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the square shaped log torch depicted in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the square shaped log torch depicted in FIG. 6.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a combustible log torch of thisinvention wherein the log torch has a pumpkin shaped side and a verticalcavity having the shape of a tree.

FIG. 10 is a top view of the pumpkin shaped log torch depicted in FIG.9.

FIG. 11 is a side view of the pumpkin shaped log torch depicted in FIG.9.

FIG. 12 is a top view of a combustible log torch of this inventionwherein the log torch has an irregular side which includes a straightside portion and an essentially circular round portion. The verticalcavity in this embodiment of the invention is in the shape of a5-pointed star.

FIG. 13 is a side view of the log torch depicted in FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view of the log torch depicted in FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is another side perspective view of the log torch depicted inFIG. 12 which illustrates the star shaped vertical cavity extending fromthe top end to the bottom end of the combustible log torch.

FIG. 16 is a side view of an embodiment of the combustible log torch ofthis invention which includes a cross-vent which interconnects the threevertical cavities.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of the log torch shown in FIG. 16 which showsthe three vertical cavities and the cross-vent extending through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end.

FIG. 18 is a top view of the log torch of FIG. 16 which shows thecross-vent, the three vertical cavities, and vents at the top end of thelog torch which extend from each of the three vertical cavities andthrough the side of the log torch.

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of the combustiblelog torch illustrated in FIGS. 16-18.

FIG. 20 is a top view of a combustible log torch having optional notcheswhich are situated on the upper outside surface thereof.

FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of a combustible log torch havingoptional notches which are situated on the upper outside surfacethereof.

FIG. 22 is a side view of a combustible log torch having optionalnotches which are situated on the upper outside surface thereof.

FIG. 23 is a side perspective view of a combustible log torch havingoptional notches which are situated on the upper outside surfacethereof.

FIG. 24 is a bottom view of a combustible log torch having optionalnotches which are situated on the upper outside surface thereof.

FIG. 25 is a top view of a log torch of this invention having threevertical cavities and a cross-vent extending through the log torch fromits top end through its bottom end, wherein the cross-vent includes acotton igniter to facilitate catching the log torch on fire.

FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of the log torch illustrated in FIG.25 having three vertical cavities and a cross-vent extending through thelog torch from its top end through its bottom end, wherein thecross-vent includes a cotton igniter to facilitate catching the logtorch on fire.

FIG. 27 is an illustration of the log torch shown in FIGS. 25 and 26which shows the three vertical cavities and the cross-vent extendingthrough the log torch from its top end through its bottom end, whereinthe cross-vent includes a cotton igniter to facilitate catching the logtorch on fire.

FIG. 28 is a top view of a log torch of this invention having onevertical cavity which extends completely through the log torch from itstop end through its bottom end, and which further includes 3 vents and 3notches.

FIG. 29 is a top perspective view of the log torch illustrated in FIG.28 having one vertical cavity which extends completely through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end, and which furtherincludes 3 vents and 3 notches.

FIG. 30 is an illustrative side view of the log torch shown in FIGS. 28and 29 showing the vertical cavity which extends completely through thelog torch from its top end through its bottom end, and which furtherincludes 3 vents and 3 notches.

FIG. 31 is a top view of a log torch of this invention having onevertical cavity which extends completely through the log torch from itstop end through its bottom end and a single vent at the bottom of thelog torch.

FIG. 32 is a top perspective view of the log torch illustrated in FIG.31 having one vertical cavity which extends completely through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end and a single vent at thebottom of the torch.

FIG. 33 is an illustrative side view of the log torch shown in FIGS. 31and 32 showing the vertical cavity which extends completely through thelog torch from its top end through its bottom end and a single vent atthe bottom of the log torch.

FIG. 34 is a top view of a log torch of this invention having onevertical cavity which extends completely through the log torch from itstop end through its bottom end and 3 vents at the bottom of the logtorch.

FIG. 35 is a top perspective view of the log torch illustrated in FIG.34 having one vertical cavity which extends completely through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end and 3 vents at the bottomof the torch.

FIG. 36 is an illustrative side view of the log torch shown in FIGS. 34and 35 showing the vertical cavity which extends completely through thelog torch from its top end through its bottom end and the 3 vents at thebottom of the log torch.

FIG. 37 is a top view of a log torch of this invention having onevertical cavity which extends completely through the log torch from itstop end through its bottom end, 3 vents at the bottom of the log torch,and 3 notches at the top of the log torch.

FIG. 38 is a top perspective view of the log torch illustrated in FIG.37 having one vertical cavity which extends completely through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end, 3 vents at the bottom ofthe torch, and 3 notches at the top of the torch.

FIG. 39 is an illustrative side view of the log torch shown in FIGS. 37and 38 showing the vertical cavity which extends completely through thelog torch from its top end through its bottom end, the 3 vents at thebottom of the log torch, and the 3 notches at the top of the torch.

FIG. 40 is a top view of a log torch of this invention having onevertical cavity which extends completely through the log torch from itstop end through its bottom end, 3 vents at the bottom of the log torch,3 vents at the top of the torch, 3 notches at the top of the log torch,and 3 notches at the bottom of the torch.

FIG. 41 is a top perspective view of the log torch illustrated in FIG.40 having one vertical cavity which extends completely through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end, 3 vents at the bottom ofthe log torch, 3 vents at the top of the torch, 3 notches at the top ofthe log torch, and 3 notches at the bottom of the torch.

FIG. 42 is an illustrative side view of the log torch shown in FIGS. 40and 41 showing the vertical cavity which extends completely through thelog torch from its top end through its bottom end, the 3 vents at thebottom of the log torch, the 3 vents at the top of the torch, the 3notches at the top of the log torch, and the 3 notches at the bottom ofthe torch.

FIG. 43 is an illustrative side view of a fireplace log of thisinvention having 5 vertical cavities which extend completely through thelog torch from its top end through its bottom end and 12 vents at thebottom of the fireplace log.

FIG. 44 is a top perspective view of the fireplace log illustrated inFIG. 43 having 5 vertical cavities which extend completely through thelog torch from its top end through its bottom end and 12 vents at thebottom of the fireplace log.

FIG. 45 is an illustrative top view of the fireplace log illustrated inFIG. 43 and FIG. 44 having 5 vertical cavities which extends completelythrough the log torch from its top end through its bottom end and 12vents at the bottom of the fireplace log.

FIG. 46 is a log torch of this invention having a “smiley face” whereinthe “smiley face” is made by 3 vertical cavities which extendscompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottomend. This design has a flat top and also includes 3 vents which extendout of each of the vertical cavities.

FIG. 47 is a top perspective view of the torch log illustrated in FIG.46 having 3 vertical cavities which extends completely through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end forming the “smiley face”.This design has a flat top and also includes 3 vents which extend out ofeach of the vertical cavities.

FIG. 48 is an illustrative side view of the torch log illustrated inFIGS. 46 and 47 which illustrates the vertical cavities which extendcompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottom endforming the “smiley face”.

FIG. 49 is a log torch of this invention having a “smiley face” whereinthe “smiley face” is made by 3 vertical cavities which extend completelythrough the log torch from its top end through its bottom end. Thisdesign has a rounded top and also includes 3 vents which extend out ofeach of the vertical cavities.

FIG. 50 is a top perspective view of the torch log illustrated in FIG.49 having 3 vertical cavities which extend completely through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end forming the “smiley face”.This design has a rounded top and also includes 3 vents which extend outof each of the vertical cavities.

FIG. 51 is an illustrative side view of the torch log illustrated inFIGS. 49 and 50 which illustrates the vertical cavities which extendcompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottom endforming the “smiley face”.

FIG. 52 is a log torch of this invention having a “smiley face” whereinthe “smiley face” is made by 3 vertical cavities which extend completelythrough the log torch from its top end through its bottom end. Thisdesign has a sloped top and also includes 3 vents which extend out ofeach of the vertical cavities.

FIG. 53 is a top perspective view of the torch log illustrated in FIG.52 having 3 vertical cavities which extend completely through the logtorch from its top end through its bottom end forming the “smiley face”.This design has a sloped top and also includes 3 vents which extend outof each of the vertical cavities.

FIG. 54 is an illustrative side view of the torch log illustrated inFIGS. 52 and 53 which illustrates the vertical cavities which extendcompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottom endforming the “smiley face”.

FIG. 55 is an illustrative top view log torch of this invention having avolcano design which includes a single vertical cavity which extendscompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottomend, 3 vents at the bottom of the torch, and 3 notches at the top of thetorch.

FIG. 56 is a top perspective view of the torch log illustrated in FIG.55 which includes a single vertical cavity which extends completelythrough the log torch from its top end through its bottom end, 3 ventsat the bottom of the torch, and 3 notches at the top of the torch.

FIG. 57 is an illustrative side view of the torch log illustrated inFIGS. 55 and 56 which illustrates the vertical cavities which extendcompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottomend.

FIG. 58 is a top view log torch of this invention having a clover designwhich includes 3 clover shaped vertical cavities which extend completelythrough the log torch from its top end through its bottom end, 3 ventsat the bottom of the torch, 3 vents at the top of the torch, 3 notchesat the top of the torch, and 3 notches at the bottom of the torch.

FIG. 59 is a top perspective view of the torch log illustrated in FIG.58 which includes 3 clover shaped vertical cavities which extendcompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottomend, 3 vents at the bottom of the torch, 3 vents at the top of thetorch, 3 notches at the top of the torch, and 3 notches at the bottom ofthe torch.

FIG. 60 is an illustrative side view of the torch log illustrated inFIGS. 58 and 59 which illustrates the vertical cavities which extendcompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottomend.

FIG. 61 is a top view of a log torch of this invention having notchesthat run from the top to the bottom of the log torch. In this design thelog torch includes 3 round vertical cavities which extend completelythrough the log torch from its top end through its bottom end, 3 ventsat the bottom of the torch, 3 vents at the top of the torch, and 3notches the extend from the top to the bottom of the torch.

FIG. 62 is a top perspective view of the torch log illustrated in FIG.61 which includes 3 round vertical cavities which extend completelythrough the log torch from its top end through its bottom end, 3 ventsat the bottom of the torch, 3 vents at the top of the torch, and 3notches the extend from the top to the bottom of the torch.

FIG. 63 is an illustrative side view of the torch log illustrated inFIGS. 61 and 62 which illustrates the vertical cavities which extendcompletely through the log torch from its top end through its bottomend.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, thecombustible log torch 1 has a top end 2 with 3 cavities (updraftchambers) 3 which extend through the entire length of the combustiblelog torch 1 from top to bottom. As shown in FIG. 2 the combustible logtorch 1 of this invention also has a circumferential peripheral side 4.As shown in FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5 the combustible log torch 1 alsohas vents 5 on its bottom end 6 which extend through the circumferentialperipheral side 4 of the torch 1 longitudinally from each of thevertical cavities 3. The combustible log torch 1 can also optionallyhave vents which are situated on the top end 2 thereof (not shown in thedrawings). To attain more consistent and uniform burning of thecombustible log torch 1 it is preferred for the vents to be angledupwardly from the circumferential peripheral side of the combustible logtorch to each of the vertical cavities. In such cases the vents aretypically angled upwardly at an angle which is within the range of 5° to70°. It is typically preferred for the vents to be angled upwardly at anangle which is within the range of 10° to 40° with good results beingattained in cases where the vents are angled upwardly at an angel whichis within the range of 20° to 30°.

The combustible log torches of this invention will typically be of acylindrical shape or a shape which is essentially cylindrical and whichsimulates natural wood logs. However, the combustible log torches ofthis invention can optionally be of other shapes if desired for otheraesthetic effects or for particular purposes, for instance the logtorches of this invention can be oval shaped, pumpkin shaped, or in theconfiguration of a polygon having virtually any number of sides of thesame or different lengths. For example, the log torch can a square,pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, or octagon shaped profile. A log torchhaving a square profile is depicted in FIGS. 6-8. In this embodiment ofthe invention the log torch 10 has a top end 11, a bottom end 12, fourflat sides 13, 14, 15, and 16, and only one vertical cavity 17 whichextends vertically through the entire length of the combustible logtorch. In this embodiment of the invention the vertical cavity 17 is ofa square shape.

FIGS. 9-11 illustrate the embodiment of this invention wherein thecombustible log torch has a pumpkin shaped profile. In this embodimentof the invention the log torch 20 has a top end 21, a bottom end 22, acontinuous pumpkin shaped side 23, and a vertical cavity 24 in the shapeof a tree. FIGS. 12-15 illustrate another embodiment of this inventionwherein the combustible log torch 30 has an irregular side whichincludes a straight side portion 31 and an essentially circular roundportion 32. The vertical cavity 33 in this embodiment of the inventionis in the shape of a 5 pointed star which extends from the top end 34 ofthe log torch 30 and through the bottom end 35 of the log torch 30.

As previously explained the combustible log torches of this inventionhas at least one vertical cavity which extends vertically through theentire length of the combustible log torch. It will typically have atleast three vertical cavities 3 which extend vertically through theentire length of the combustible log torch (from the top to the bottomof the log torches). For instance, the log torch can include 4, 5, 6, 7,8, or more vertical cavities. These cavities act as updraft chambers andare typically round in which case they are in the form of cylinderswhich extend through the log torch. In most cases, it is preferred forthese cavities to be round or essentially round. In most cases the roundcavities will have a diameter which is from about 15% to about 40% andpreferably about 20% to about 30% of the diameter of the combustible logtorch. For instance, such round cavities can have a diameter of about2.375 inches in the case where the combustible log is of a diameter ofabout 10.25 inches. However, the cavities can be of other desiredshapes, such as ovals, squares, pentagons, hexagons, heptagons,octagons, and the like. In any case the cavities will normally bearranged on the top end and the bottom end of the torch log in acircular pattern with the cavities being centered about 40% to about 65%of the distance from the center of the log to its circumferentialperipheral side. In most cases the cavities will be centered about 45%to about 60% of the distance from the center of the log to itscircumferential peripheral side.

The vertical cavities can optionally include an igniter to facilitatecatching the combustible log torch of this invention on fire. Theigniter can be any material that will readily ignite and catch the logtorch on fire. For instance, the igniter can be a wick, a fuse or anyother suitable material which can optionally be impregnated with anatural flammable substance, such as a paraffin, a wax, or the like. Inone preferred embodiment of this invention the igniter is simply a pieceof cotton which is pushed firmly into one or more of the verticalcavities of the torch log of this invention.

Cotton balls or pieces of cotton fiber can also be inserted into across-vent in the torch log to facilitate catching the torch log onfire. Such a design is illustrated in FIGS. 25, 26, and 27. In this logdesign 60 there are three vertical cavities 61 and a cross-vent 62 whichextend through the log torch 60 from its top end 63 through its bottomend 64, wherein the cross-vent includes the cotton igniter 65 tofacilitate catching the log torch on fire. The combustible log torch 60can optionally also include one or more cuts outs or notches 51 whichare situated on the top or lower outside surface 52 of the combustiblelog torch 60 and facilitate the outer parts of the log torch fallinginwardly as it burns to help contain the fire within a more concentratedand smaller area. In any case, the use of cotton igniters is moredesirable in log torches of smaller sizes that they are in standardscale log torches.

Cross-vents between the vertical cavities can optionally be included inthe combustible log torch in cases where more than one vertical cavityis present. Such cross-vents help to insure that relatively uniformburning across the cross-section of the log torch occurs. FIGS. 16-19illustrate a combustible log torch having a cross-vent which connectsthree vertical cavities. In this embodiment of the invention thecombustible log torch 40 includes three vertical cavities 41, 42, and 43and a cross-vent 44 which interconnects the three vertical cavities 41,42, and 43. In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS.16-19, the cross-vent 44 extends through the entire length of thecombustible log torch 40 and extends through both the top end 44 and thebottom end 45 of the log torch 40. In this particular embodiment of theinvention the log torch 40 includes both top vents 46 and bottom vents47 which extend from each of the vertical cavities 41, 42, and 43 andthrough the side 48 of the log torch 40. In this embodiment of theinvention the cross-vent 44 is in the shape of a cylinder which connectsthe vertical cavities 41, 42, and 43. However, in other embodiments ofthe invention the cross-vents can be of other shapes which connect twoor more vertical cavities. For instance, the cross-vents can berectangular in shape or can simply be slits which connect two or morevertical cavities. In many cases it is preferred for such cross-vents toconnect all of the vertical cavities within the combustible log torch.

In another embodiment of this invention the combustible log torch 50 canoptionally also include one or more cuts outs or notches 51 asillustrated in FIGS. 20-24. These notches 51 are situated on the upperoutside surface 52 of the combustible log torch 50 and facilitate theouter parts of the log torch 50 falling inwardly as it burns to helpcontain the fire within a more concentrated and smaller area. Thisdesirable characteristic is attained by virtue of some of the mass fromthe outside surface 53 of the combustible log torch 50 being removedthereby shifting the overall mass of the log torch 50 inwardly. Suchnotches 51 are also useful in that they provide points at which otherlogs can be conveniently stacked against them which is particularlyuseful in cases where the combustible log torch 50 is being used as astarter log to initiate the burning of natural logs in a campfire, in afireplace or in a fire pit. Such notches 51 can be of a triangular shape(V-shaped) as illustrated in FIGS. 20-24 or that can be of anotherconvenient geometry, such as square cuts or rounded. In some cases, itis convenient for the number of notches 51 to be equal to the number ofvertical cavities (updraft chambers) 54 included in the combustible logtorch 50. As illustrated in FIG. 20 and FIG. 21, the notches 51 can beevenly distributed along the upper outside surface of the combustiblelog torch 50 and spaced in areas which are between vertical cavities 54.For instance, FIG. 20 and FIG. 21 show a combustible log torch 50 having3 V-shaped notches 51 and 3 vertical cavities 54 which are distributedover the upper surface of the log torch in an alternating pattern.

The combustible log torches of this invention can vary in size. However,to attain a reasonable burn time and a fire that is typically of thesize desired in most camping situations and for bonfires, the logtorches of this invention will typically be of a diameter which iswithin the range of 1 inch to 15 inches and more typically within therange of 5 inches to 14 inches. The combustible log torches of thisinvention will more typically have a diameter which is within the rangeof 7 inches to 11 inches and will preferably have a diameter which iswithin the range of 8 inches to 10 inches. The combustible log torchesof this invention will typically be from about 4 inches to about 12inches high (as measured from the bottom end to the top end). They willmore typically be from about 4 inches to about 10 inches high and willpreferable be from about 5 inches to about 8 inches high.

The combustible log torches of this invention are made by compacting awood particle composition which is comprised of wood particles and afood grade binder. The wood particles can be from a hardwood source,such maple, cherry, red oak, black oak, which oak, black walnut,chestnut, pecan, alder, ash, aspen, basswood, beech, cottonwood,hackberry, hickory, poplar, sycamore, yellow birch, paper white birch,or other hardwood trees. The wood particles can also be a mixture ofsawdust for hardwood trees and from softwood trees. The softwoodparticles can come from cedar, fir, hemlock, pine, redwood, spruce,cypress, or other softwood trees. In some cases, to attain an optimalfire and long burn time it is desirable to utilize such a mixture ofhardwood particles and softwood particles. For instance, the ratio ofhard wood particles to soft wood particles in such mixtures can bewithin the range of 0.5:1 to 10:1. In such compositions the ratio ofhard wood particles to soft wood particles is more typically within therange of 1:1 to 8:1. In many cases, the ratio of hard wood particles tosoft wood particles will be within the range of 2:1 to 6:1. The woodparticles will typically be in the form of wood sawdust, wood shavings,wood chips, and/or wood dust. Various combinations of such woodparticles can be selected to attain optimal burn characteristics andburn time. In some cases, it is desirable for the wood particlecomposition to be comprised entirely or predominantly of wood sawdust.For instance, such mixtures of wood particles will frequently contain60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or more wood sawdust, based upon the total weight ofwood particles in the wood particle composition.

To attain optimal flame characteristics and burn time, supplementallignin can also be included in the wood particle composition. In suchwood particle compositions, the supplemental lignin will typically bepresent in the wood particle composition at a level of 5 weight percentto 40 weight percent, based upon the total solids weight of the woodparticle composition. The lignin supplement will more typically be addedto the wood particle composition at a level which is within the range 10weight percent to 30 weight percent, based upon the total solids weightof the wood particle composition. The lignin supplement will frequentlybe added to the sawdust composition at a level which is within the rangeof 15 weight percent to 25 weight percent, based upon the total solidsweight of the wood particle composition. Lignin is, of course,inherently present in wood and typically constitutes between 20% and 35%of the dry weight of wood. Accordingly, the term “lignin supplement” asused herein references to lignin which is in a relatively pure formwhich is a byproduct from papermaking and/or other industrial processes.The quantity of lignin added as “lignin supplement” is in addition tothe quantity found in the wood particles in the wood particlecomposition. Lignin is of the approximate empirical formula C₃₁H₃₄O₁₁and has been assigned CAS Number 9005-53-2.

In another embodiment of this invention the wood particle compositioncan also include hibiscus cannabinus, which is commonly known as kenaf.Kenaf is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant that grows to heights of12 to 18 feet in as little as 4 to 5 months. Kenaf can produce 5-10 tonsof dry fiber and core per acre and typically does not require treatmentwith herbicides or pesticides. The kenaf plant is believed to haveoriginated in Africa or Asia and has been cultivated for its fiber inIndia, Bangladesh, Thailand, and Egypt for thousands of years. Kenaffiber, which is frequently referred to simply as “knaft,” hastraditionally been used in manufacturing rope, twine, clothing, rugs,and paper. Today the kenaf plant is also being commercially cultivatedin the Untied States.

The kenaf plant is comprised of two distinct types of differentmaterials. These materials include an outer fiber and a core. The outerfiber is frequently referred to as simply the fiber and is sometimescalled the bast or the bast fiber. The bast accounts for about one-thirdof the plant by weight. The core is a low density woody type materialwhile the bast is a much lower density fluffy type fiber of high tensilestrength. As harvested, the bast fibers tenaciously adhere to the core.In a typical harvested kenaf crop, the core is slightly tapered frombottom to top and has a small diameter at the top in the range of 0.25inch to 0.5 inch. The core and fibers have distinctly different uses andmust be separated in conventional application before they are suitablefor these different uses. The economics of using kenaf in high volumeapplications is attractive because the cost of the cultivated cropcompares very favorably to the cost of wood.

Either kenaf fibers, kenaf core material, or both can be optionally beincluded in the wood particle compositions employed in the combustiblelog torches of this invention. Using both kenaf fibers and kenaf corematerial offers a significant advantage in that it eliminates the needto separate the kenaf core material from the kenaf fibers. In thisembodiment of the invention the level of kenaf (fibers and/or corematerial) included in the wood particle composition will depend upon thetype of wood particles utilized as well as the specific nature of thefood grade binder and will be adjusted to attain desired flamecharacteristics and burn time (rate of burn). In such wood particlecompositions, the kenaf will typically be present in the wood particlecomposition at a level of 5 weight percent to 40 weight percent, basedupon the total solids weight of the wood particle composition. The kenafwill more typically be added to the wood particle composition at a levelwhich is within the range 10 weight percent to 30 weight percent, basedupon the total solids weight of the wood particle composition. The kenafwill frequently be added to the wood particle composition at a levelwhich is within the range of 15 weight percent to 25 weight percent,based upon the total solids weight of the wood particle composition.

In another embodiment of this invention the wood particle compositioncan also include hemp from Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and/orCannabis ruderalis plants. It may be desirable to utilized hemp fibersfrom plants which have been bred to produce minimal levels oftetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to comply with applicable laws. In any case,the level of hemp fiber included in the wood particle composition willdepend upon the type of wood particles utilized as well as the specificnature of the food grade binder and will be adjusted to attain desiredflame characteristics and burn time (rate of burn). In such woodparticle compositions, the hemp will typically be present in the woodparticle composition at a level of 5 weight percent to 40 weightpercent, based upon the total solids weight of the wood particlecomposition. The hemp will more typically be added to the wood particlecomposition at a level which is within the range 10 weight percent to 30weight percent, based upon the total solids weight of the wood particlecomposition. The hemp will frequently be added to the wood particlecomposition at a level which is within the range of 15 weight percent to25 weight percent, based upon the total solids weight of the woodparticle composition.

In another embodiment of this invention the wood particle compositioncan also include a triglyceride oil to improve the manner in which thecombustible log torch burns. Such triglyceride oils typically vegetableoils which are esters that are from glycerol and three fatty acids. Somerepresentative examples of triglyceride oils that can be used includealmond oil, canola oil, coconut oil, corn oil, cotton seed oil, flaxseed oil, grape seed oil, olive oil, palm oil, peanut oil, saffloweroil, sesame oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, walnut oil, and mixturesthereof. In many cases it is preferred to employ soybean oil or corn oilas the triglyceride oil. In any case, the level of triglyceride oilsincluded in the wood particle composition will depend upon the type ofwood particles utilized as well as the specific nature of the food gradebinder and will be adjusted to attain desired flame characteristics andburn time (rate of burn). In such wood particle compositions, thetriglyceride oil will typically be present in the wood particlecomposition at a level of 1 weight percent to 35 weight percent, basedupon the total solids weight of the wood particle composition. Thetriglyceride oil will more typically be added to the wood particlecomposition at a level which is within the range 5 weight percent to 20weight percent, based upon the total solids weight of the wood particlecomposition. The triglyceride oil will frequently be added to the woodparticle composition at a level which is within the range of 6 weightpercent to 15 weight percent or at a level which is within the range of8 weight percent to 12 weight percent, based upon the total solidsweight of the wood particle composition. The triglyceride oil can bemixing into the wood particle composition prior to compaction or it canbe applied to the surface of a combustible log torch and allowed to beabsorbed into the matrix of the wood particle composition of the logtorch. It is typically preferred to apply the triglyceride oil to thesurface of the log torch and allow it to be absorbed therein becausethis procedure helps to prevent the triglyceride oil from becomingrancid and accordingly allows for the log torch to be stored over alonger period before being burnt. A wide variety of methods can be usedfor applying the triglyceride oil to the surface of the log torch. Forinstance, the triglyceride oil can be sprayed onto the surface of thelog torch or the log torch can be dipped into the triglyceride oil. Thetriglyceride oil can also be applied to the surface of the log torchwith brushes or rollers. In any case, to attain better burncharacteristics it is preferred to apply the triglyceride oil to the top(upper part) of the log torch.

The food grade binder used can be any material which will adequatelybind the sawdust in the form of the combustible log torch of thisinvention and which does not emit toxic materials, compounds whichimpart foul flavors to food, and/or compounds which have undesirableodors. Such food grade binders are typically aqueous solutions ofvarious food products. Some representative examples of food gradebinders that can be used include, but are not limited to, sugarsolutions, molasses, honey, maple syrup, corn syrup, and the like. Toattain optimal flame characteristics and burn time flour or anotherstarch can also be included in the food grade binder formulation. Incases where flour is utilized it will typically be employed at a maximumlevel of 50 weight percent of the food grade binder formulation, basedupon total dry weight of the food grade binder composition. In mostcases, flour will be utilized at a maximum level of 40 weight percent,30 weight percent, 20 weight percent, or 10 weight percent. In anotherembodiment of the invention polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) can also beincluded as the binder or in conjunction with other food grade binders.

The sugar employed in the food grade binder can be a monosaccharide,disaccharide, or a oligosaccharide. For instance, the monosaccharide canbe selected from the group consisting of glucose (dextrose), fructose,and galactose. The disaccharide can be selected from the groupconsisting of sucrose, maltose, and lactose. In many cases it ispreferable to utilize sucrose which is extracted from sugarcane(Saccharum alopecuroidum, Saccharum angustifolium, Saccharumarundinaceum, Saccharum asperum, Saccharum bengalense, Saccharumbrevibarbe, Saccharum coarctatum, Saccharum fallax, Saccharumformosanum, Saccharum giganteum, Saccharum griffithii, Saccharumhildebrandtii, Saccharum kanashiroi, Saccharum longesetosum, Saccharummaximum, Saccharum narenga, Saccharum officinarum, Saccharum perrieri,Saccharum procerum, Saccharum ravennae, Saccharum robustum, Saccharumrufipilum, Saccharan sikkimense, Saccharum spontaneum, Saccharumstewarti, Saccharum strictum, Saccahrum velutinum, Saccahrum viguieri,Saccharum villosum, Saccharum wardii, Saccharum williamsii, or anothervariety of sugarcane). The sucrose can also be extracted from sugarbeets (Beta vulgaris).

In most cases it is desirable to utilize the food grade binder as ahighly concentrated or saturated aqueous solution. The food grade binderis typically present in the aqueous solution at a concentration of atleast 300 g/l and can be present at concentrations of at least 400 g/l,at least 450 g/l, at least 500 g/l, at least 520 g/l, or even at least535 g/l. Such aqueous solutions will normally include the food gradebinder at a concentration which is within the range of 300 g/l to 550g/l. For instance, the food grade binder can be present in the aqueoussolution at a concentration which is within the range of 400 g/l. to 550g/l, at a concentration which is within the range of 450 g/l to 540 g/l,at a concentration which is within the range of 500 g/l to 540 g/l, at aconcentration which is within the range of 500 g/l to 535 g/l, at aconcentration which is within the range of 520 g/l to 550 g/l, at aconcentration which is within the range of 520 g/l to 540 g/l, at aconcentration which is within the range of 520 g/l to 535 g/l, at aconcentration which is within the range of 530 g/l to 550 g/l, at aconcentration which is within the range of 530 g/l to 540 g/l, or at aconcentration which is within the range of 530 g/l to 535 g/l.

The weight ratio of the wood particles to the food grade binder(solution) in the sawdust composition will typically be within the rangeof 4:1 to 0.2:1 and will more typically be within the range of 3:1 to0.5:1. The weight ratio of wood particles to the food grade binder(solution) in the wood particle composition will preferably be withinthe range of 2:1 to 0.8:1, will more preferably be within the range of1.6:1 to 1:1, and will most preferably be within the range of 1.4:1 to1.1.

The pressure utilized in compacting the wood particle composition intothe desired shape of the log torch will normally be within the range ofabout 5 psi (0.034 megapascals) to about 2000 psi (13.89 megapascals),and will typically be within the range of about 10 psi (0.069megapascals) to about 1500 psi (10.34 megapascals). In many cases thepressure utilized will be within the range of about 50 psi (0.34magapascals) to about 800 psi (5.52 magapascals). The pressure used willpreferably be within the range of about 100 psi (0.69 magapascals) toabout 400 psi (2.76 magapascals), and will most preferably be within therange of about 150 psi (1.03 magapascals) to about 250 psi (1.72magapascals). After the combustible torch log is manufactured it ispreferably packaged in a water vapor barrier film to maintain the neededmoisture level within the torch log so that it will burn with thedesired flame characteristics and at the desired rate. The film used canbe selected from a wide variety of plastic materials with low densitypolyethylene being preferred.

In a highly preferred embodiment of this invention a standard scale logtorch can be made. Such a standard scale log torch typically has anoutside diameter which is within the range of 7 inches to 9 inches andis about 6 inches to 7 inches high. Such a standard scale log torch willalso typically include vertical cavities which are about 1.5 inch to 2.5inches in diameter. For instance, such a log torch can have an outsidediameter of 8 inches, a height of 6.5 inches, and vertical cavitieswhich are 2 inches in diameter. Such a log torch will have a ratio ofvertical cavity diameter to outside diameter to height of about1:4:3.25.

In another highly preferred embodiment of this invention mini-logtorches can be made. Such a mini-log torch typically has an outsidediameter which is within the range of 1 inch to 5 inches and is about 1inch to 5 inches high. Such a standard scale log torch will alsotypically include vertical cavities which are about 1 inch to 1.5 inchesin diameter. For instance, such a log torch can have an outside diameterof 4 inches, a height of 4.75 inches, and vertical cavities which are1.125 inches in diameter. Such a log torch will have a ratio of verticalcavity diameter to outside diameter to height of about 1:3.55:4.23.

The food grade binder used in the practice of this invention willnormally contain a minimum of 100 grams of sugar per liter of water. Itwill more typically contain 1000 grams to 2500 grams of sugar per literof water. The water is preferably heated to a temperature which iswithin the range of about 90° F. to 135° F. and is more preferablyheated to a temperature which is within the range of 110° F. to 125° F.to improve solubility. In most cases the water will be heated to atemperature of about 120° F. and about 2500 grams of sugar will be addedto it in making the food grade binder. However, in some manufacturingenvironments it is desirable to simply use molten sugar at a temperatureof about 300° F. to 350° F. as the binder.

In some embodiments of this invention the combustible log torch iscomprised of wood particles, such as saw dust, sugar, and a triglycerideoil, such as a vegetable oil. Such compositions will typically containfrom 12.5 grams to 1600 grams of oil and 100 grams to 7,500 grams ofsugar per 1200 grams of wood particles. Such compositions will moretypically contain from 100 grams to 1000 grams of oil and 500 grams to4,000 grams of sugar per 1200 grams of wood particles. Such compositionswill more preferably contain from 125 grams to 400 grams of oil and 1000grams to 2,000 grams of sugar per 1200 grams of wood particles. Forinstance, such compositions can contain about 150 grams of oil and 1475grams of sugar per 1200 grams of wood particles.

After the combustible log torch is manufactured by compacting a mixtureof wood particles and a food grade binder in accordance with thisinvention additional oil can be added to the combustible log torch. Thiscan be accomplished by simply applying the oil to the surface of the logtorch and will typically further enhance the burn characteristic of thelog torch. The oil can be applied to the manufactured log torch by awide variety of techniques, including but not limited to, spraying,dipping, and brushing. The oil will typically be selected fromtriglyceride oils, such as a vegetable oil. The oil will normally beapplied in an amount which is within the range of 2 grams to 1600 gramsper 1200 grams of wood particles. The oil will typically be applied inan amount which is within the range of 4 grams to 1200 grams per 1200grams of wood particles. The oil will more typically be applied in anamount which is within the range of 10 grams to 800 grams per 1200 gramsof wood particles. The oil will preferably be applied in an amount whichis within the range of 20 grams to 400 grams per 1200 grams of woodparticles. The oil will more preferably be applied in an amount which iswithin the range of 40 grams to 200 grams per 1200 grams of woodparticles. The oil will most preferably be applied in an amount which iswithin the range of 50 grams to 100 grams per 1200 grams of woodparticles. For instance, the oil can be applied at a level of about 75grams per 1200 grams of wood particles.

FIGS. 25 through 63 illustrate log designs that can be made utilizingthe method of this invention. These combustible log designs includevarious combinations of vertical cavities 70, vents 71, and notches 72.The “smiley face” design shown in FIGS. 46-48 has a flat top surface 73,the “smiley face” design shown in FIGS. 49-51 has a rounded top surface74, and the “smiley face” design shown in FIGS. 52-54 has a slanted topsurface 75.

While certain representative embodiments and details have been shown forthe purpose of illustrating the subject invention, it will be apparentto those skilled in this art that various changes and modifications canbe made therein without departing from the scope of the subjectinvention. The illustrations and corresponding descriptions are notintended to restrict or limit the scope of the appended claims in anyway.

What is claimed is:
 1. A combustible log torch having a top end, abottom end, a circumferential peripheral side, at least 3 vertical holeswhich extend through the entire length of the combustible log torch fromthe bottom end to the top end, and at least 3 vents which extend throughthe circumferential peripheral side of the torch longitudinally fromeach of the vertical holes; said top end, said bottom end, and saidcircumferential peripheral side defining a log torch structure whichconstitutes the peripheral surfaces of the combustible log torch; saidcombustible log torch being comprised of a combustible mixture ofcompressed wood particles and a food grade binder.
 2. The combustiblelog torch of claim 1 wherein the vents are situated at the bottom end ofthe combustible log torch.
 3. The combustible log torch of claim 1wherein the vents are angled upwardly from the circumferentialperipheral side of the combustible log torch to each of the verticalholes; and wherein the vents are angled upwardly at an angle which iswithin the range of 5° to 70°.
 4. The combustible log torch of claim 1wherein the combustible log torch is further comprised of a cottonigniter which is positioned in at least one of the vertical holes. 5.The combustible log torch of claim 1 wherein the combustible log torchis packaged in a plastic film.
 6. The combustible log torch of claim 5wherein the plastic film is low density polyethylene.
 7. The combustiblelog torch of claim 1 wherein the vertical holes have the shape of cloverleaves.
 8. The combustible log torch of claim 1 wherein the verticalholes have the shape of three-leaf clovers.
 9. The combustible log torchof claim 8 wherein the vertical holes have a diameter which is fromabout 20% to about 30% of the diameter of the combustible log torch,wherein the vertical holes are arranged on the top end and the bottomend of the torch log in a circular pattern with the holes being centeredabout 40% to about 65% of the distance from the center of thecombustible log torch to its circumferential peripheral side.
 10. Thecombustible log torch of claim 1 wherein the weight ratio of the woodparticles to the food grade binder in the combustible mixture is withinthe range of 4:1 to 0.2:1.
 11. The combustible log torch of claim 10wherein the wood particle are selected from the group consisting of woodsawdust, wood shavings, and wood chips.
 12. The combustible log torch ofclaim 10 wherein the wood particles include hard wood particles and softwood particles, and wherein the weight ratio of hard wood particles tosoft wood particles in the combustible mixture is within the range of0.5:1 to 10:1.
 13. The combustible log torch of claim 10 wherein thefood grade binder is selected from the group consisting of sugar, honey,maple syrup, and corn syrup.
 14. The combustible log torch of claim 13wherein the combustible mixture is further comprised of a triglycerideoil which is present in the combustible mixture at a level of 1 weightpercent to 35 weight percent, based upon the total weight of thecombustible mixture.
 15. The combustible log torch of claim 10 whereinthe food grade binder is sugar.
 16. The combustible log torch of claim 1wherein said combustible log torch is a standard scale torch which hasan outside diameter which is within the range of 7 inches to 9 inchesand is about 6 inches to 7 inches high; or wherein the combustible logtorch is a mini-log torch which has an outside diameter which is withinthe range of 1 inch to 5 inches and is about 1 inch to 5 inches high.17. The combustible log torch of claim 15 wherein the wood particlesinclude hard wood particles and soft wood particles, and wherein theweight ratio of hard wood particles to soft wood particles in thecombustible mixture is within the range of 2:1 to 6:1.
 18. Thecombustible log torch of claim 1 wherein the weight ratio of the woodparticles to the food grade binder in the combustible mixture is withinthe range of 3:1 to 0.5:1.
 19. The combustible log torch of claim 1which is further comprised of kenaf, wherein the kenaf is present in thecombustible mixture at a level which is within the range of 5 weightpercent to 40 weight percent, based upon the total solids weight of thecombustible mixture.
 20. The combustible log torch of claim 1 whereinthe log torch is further comprised of a cross-vent, and wherein thecross-vent includes a cotton igniter.